Section 1- Letter from the Principal

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy. The academy is a community of faith and learning where dedicated and caring staff work together to provide a quality education in the Roman Catholic tradition. We are committed to offering a rigorous academic program that teaches the Gospel values, supports the education of the whole child, provides a safe environment, and promotes preparing students to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens serving God and others. The academy is exceptional because of the highly qualified teachers and administrator. They embrace student development and use a comprehensive approach to education. Teachers treasure the stimulating atmosphere at Saint Andrew and each student's genuine engagement in learning. Our staff is committed to faith-based education and contributing to the spiritual and educational transformation of each child. They have high expectations for the students and create learning opportunities to stimulate and challenge the individual needs and talents of their students. Saint Andrew is a welcoming community where each student is known personally. No one is treated as a number. Once they walk through the doors of St. Andrew’s, they immediately become part of the family. The atmosphere is organically positive and all students are encouraged to embrace learning and strive to reach their greatest potential. Parents actively participate in school activities whether fundraisers, school trips, or sports; they contribute to the liveliness and family atmosphere of the academy. Likewise, Saint Andrew Avellino Church is a partner invested in both the spiritual and educational growth of our pupils. We are a reflection of the larger Flushing area as a diverse, inclusive and dynamic school. My advice is to visit and see what makes Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy a special place. Explore our academy and witness our happy and involved students and teachers. Speak with an alum to learn how a Saint Andrew education launched their educational journey. Finally, please drop in and chat with me. I will always make myself available to answer all your questions. I am committed to helping you make the most informed decision concerning your child's education and will work diligently to ensure they flourish in our school. Saint Andrew is not just a school or a community but a family. We care deeply for our students from the moment they join our school to the day they graduate and beyond. However, our graduates never say good-bye. The rich, memorable and life-changing experience that is Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy leaves an indelible mark that keeps them connected as they regularly share with us their many personal and professional accomplishments. We know Saint Andrew is extraordinary; we are certain you and your child will discover this as well. God bless,

Mrs. Debora Hanna Principal

Section 2- Introduction

Saint Avellino Catholic Academy is a Nursery through Grade 8 Catholic Elementary and Middle School under the Diocese of Brooklyn Schools’ Office. The primary importance of each Catholic school is its Religious Education Program, which is of primary importance to the Catholic School. Students learn the teachings of theCatholic Faith through daily instruction, liturgical celebrations and prayer services, as well as service to others. Sacramental instruction is an important component of this formation process.

The Diocesan curriculum guidelines, consistent with the State of New York guidelines, and Common Core Standards are followed for the teaching of all secular subject areas. The curriculum is marked by current content and fresh approaches to methodology.

Section 3- School Overview 3.1 Brief History of the School

St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy opened on September 25, 1925 with eight classrooms. The school was staffed by six Sisters of St. Dominic from St.Mary of the Springs, Columbus, Ohio.

The Pastor of St.Andrew Avellino was Father Edward F. McGoldrick. Father McGoldrick was an avid reader: loved literature and books so much that the New York City Public Library across from St. Andrew Avellino was named in his memory.

Msgr. Francis H. Oechsler was appointed Pastor on October 18, 1930 following the death of Father McGoldrick on September 30th. Msgr. Oechsler broke ground for the new school on January 6, 1961.

When the school was built it served grades one through four, with the upper grades added in the early 1930’s. The cornerstone on the so-called “old school” carries the date 1924: the “new” school, which houses the cafeteria, gym and fourteen classrooms, was completed in 1964.

The school brought to the parish a new influential force: the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of Springs, Columbus, Ohio. The first group of sisters to arrive- the year was 1925- was led by Sister Bernardine Lynam, the school’s first principal. Sisters Mary Bernard Burke, Anna Maria Murray, Madeleine Walsh and Bernice Hedderson (who later served as a principal), lived at the Swick residence on 159th Street. The house is still standing.

The five sisters and those who joined their ranks in subsequent years moved into the present convent in 1928. The Dominican Sisters taught at Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy until 1989 when we had our first lay Principal, James G. Hayden.

3.2 Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy is dedicated to living the principles of the Catholic Tradition rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ which allows students to learn to serve God and others, to develop their unique talent and skills, to strive for academic excellence, and to become life-long learners.

3.3 Vision Statement

St. Andrew Avellino will continue to be a school of excellence with a strong focus on its Catholic Identity and academic distinction. A dedicated and caring faculty will be the hallmark of its academic excellence.

Our vision is to:

● Provide a safe, nurturing and secure environment where Gospel values, beliefs and tradition are lived and celebrated on a daily basis.

● Partner with parents to support students learning and their search for knowledge and respect for core values of honesty, loyalty, and compassion.

● Create a Catholic environment that contributes to the formation of students as active participants in the parish community.

● Foster a culture of education by equipping students with critical thinking skills, innovation, and rigorous curriculum, global perspective with an emphasis on moral education and service.

● Promote life- long learners that advance the development of the whole person in mind, body, and spirit.

● Graduate students prepared to become productive, spiritual citizens who will aspire to make the world a more just and humane place.

3.4 Parental Expectation of Adherence to School Policy Discipline in the schools should reflect the spirit of Vatican Council II, as expressed in the documents on Christian Education and Religious Liberty. Therefore, discipline should be geared to assist a child develop in the understanding of self as being made in the image of God.

….Education is integral to the mission of the Church to proclaim the Good News. First and foremost every Catholic educational institution is a place to encounter the living God who in Jesus Christ reveals his transforming love and truth (cf. Spe Salve, 4). This relationship elicits a desire to grow in the knowledge and understanding of Christ and his teaching. In this way those who meet him are drawn by the very power of God to lead a new life characterized by all that is beautiful, good, and true; a life of Christian witness nurtured and strengthened within the community of our Lord’s disciples, the Church….Dear friends, I wish to conclude by focusing our attention specifically on the paramount importance of your own professionalism and witness within our Catholic universities and schools. First, let me thank you for your dedication and generosity. I know from my own days as a professor, and have heard from your Bishops and officials of the Congregation for Catholic Education, that the reputation of Catholic institutes of learning in this country is largely due to yourselves and your predecessors. Your selfless contributions – from outstanding research to the dedication of those working in inner-city schools – serve your country and the Church. For this I express my profound gratitude. Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI to Catholic educators at the Catholic University of America, Washington, DC, April 17, 2008

Evidence of discipline exists in a school community when the students, teachers, administration, and parents/legal guardians work cooperatively to educate the whole child: spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Section 4- Catholic Identity The mission of Catholic Education is to form children in the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ as celebrated in the Catholic Church, while providing a comprehensive academic education that will help them reach their full human potential and contribute to the common good of our nation and the world. Ultimately, the mission of all Catholic education is to lead those entrusted to its care to find salvation in Jesus Christ.

In Catholic Schools on the Threshold of the Third Millennium (#11) Saint John Paul II wrote that Catholic schools are “…the privileged environment in which Christian education is carried out. Catholic schools are at once places of evangelization, of complete formation, of enculturation, of apprenticeship in a lively dialogue between young people of different religions and social backgrounds.”

Diocesan academies and schools strive to emulate the words of Saint John Paul II by: ● creating an evangelizing community, where people come to have a better and deeper

understanding of Christ and His Church ● recognizing the importance of multicultural, multi-faceted, academically sound educational

programs that meet the needs of the poor and the rich, the Catholic and the non-Catholic, the wise and the not so learned

● welcoming members to the school community regardless of culture, race, or religion and celebrating the diversity that exists within our communities, churches, and schools

● creating an environment that encourages young people to grow, not separated from others, but as part of a larger community, as part of the family of God

● not only promoting and encouraging academically sound individuals, but rejoicing with children who are spiritually, theologically, and liturgically enlivened and fulfilled

Section 5- Student Behavior 5.1 Conduct Students are taught in an atmosphere of cooperation, honesty, and respect for classroom rules. The rules are determined by the teacher and communicated to students at the beginning of each year. It is in an atmosphere of mutual respect that students learn in a caring and respectful environment. Students learn to be responsible, make good choices and participate in the life of St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy in a mature manner, which is reflective of their deepening faith and religious development in partnership with the guidance of their parents. Some of the expectations that demonstrate this progression are:

1. Being considerate and respectful of other students. 2. Respecting class and school policies. 3. Looking neat and clean at all times. 4. Wearing the uniform with pride and dignity. 5. Speaking to one another with respect and care. 6. Controlling anger at all times. 7. Respecting school property, e.g. covering books, keeping desks neat and clean. 8. Keeping school grounds free of litter and graffiti.

9. Showing responsibility by doing homework neatly each night and preparing for class and tests.

10. Speaking and acting respectfully to one another, teachers, and other parent 5.2 School rules Discipline is something that should come from within. Children must be taught to exercise self-control, ideally eliminating the need for school imposed controls. We expect that all of the students at SAINT ANDREW AVELLINO CATHOLIC ACADEMY will be aware of their obligations. Their behavior must reflect pride in and concern for the good name of St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy. Students who behave in such a manner that their actions or attitude discredit themselves, their teachers, fellow students, or the name of St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. A fundamental principle of St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy requires that all faculty and school personnel be given FULL RESPECT by students at all times. Failure to do so is considered an extremely serious offense. This rule applies to all situations involving students and personnel whether in classrooms, halls, cafeteria, recess, etc.

* INTERPRETATION OF THE ABOVE IS TO BE LEFT UP TO THE PRINCIPAL. 5.3 Diocesan Anti-Bullying Policy The school communities within the Brooklyn Diocese believe in the sanctity of human life and the inherent dignity of the human person. We believe that all students, school employees and volunteers have a right to a safe and healthy school environment. All members of the school community, in turn, have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance and acceptance. Research shows that students who learn in a safe and supportive environment succeed academically. Students have a right to learn in an environment free of any harassment that substantially interferes with their education.

Bullying, bias-based harassment/intimidation are intentional, repeated, hurtful acts (physical, verbal, written) committed by one or more persons towards another person or persons. It usually involves an actual or perceived imbalance of power which can be physical, emotional or verbal. If not addressed, bullying can lead to the creation of a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment and can affect a student’s educational opportunities. The behaviors include but are not limited to:

● Physical: physical violence, stalking, threats, aggressive or menacing gestures, exclusion from peer groups which is intended to humiliate or isolate the target (relational bullying).

● Verbal: taunts, teasing, derogatory language, derogatory jokes, name calling, slurs, spreading rumors

● Written: written or graphic material including graffiti containing comments or stereotypes that are electronically written and transmitted via internet, social messaging sites, blogs, instant messaging, text messages, cell phone, webcams. This would also include forwarding such messages if received. This generally constitutes cyber-bullying.

Reporting Procedures:

● The targeted student, parent/guardian of a student or other students in the school (bystanders), or any school staff who believe that bullying has occurred should report the incident to the principal.

● The principal needs to conduct an investigation by interviewing all parties separately. ● The parents of all involved students should be notified. ● If it is determined that bullying has occurred the child who bullied is to be subject to

consequences per the school’s disciplinary code. ● Parents should be advised to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency if the

situation warrants such a report. ● Referral to counseling should be made for all parties if deemed necessary. ● The principal must follow up to see that the offending conduct has stopped. ● All students should be notified that retaliation against anyone who makes a report will not

be tolerated and those that retaliate will be subject to disciplinary actions. 5.4 Diocesan Cyber Bullying Policy In accordance with New York State Law on Cyber-Bullying, inappropriate, defamatory, or content found to be injurious to an academy or parish school community member may result in disciplinary action, even if done outside of academy/parish school premises or using devices not owned or controlled by the academy/ parish school. All instances of such behavior must be reported immediately to the administration, who will investigate the matter and enforce the consequences deemed appropriate. Violation of this policy in whole or in part may result in any or all of the following and will be issued at the discretion of the academy or parish school principal:

• Loss of use/privileges of school/academy technology. • Disciplinary action including, but not limited to, detention, suspension, expulsion, and /or

legal action by the school/academy, civil authorities, and/or other involved parties. • Compensation for damages, both physical and punitive, incurred due to actions in violation

of this policy 5.5 Diocesan Acceptable Use Policy The use of technology is permitted on school premises under limited conditions as authorized by the Principal for the sole purpose of enhancing academic achievement while respecting the dignity and safety of all members of the St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy community. In using the information and technology in safe, legal, and responsible ways, the following conditions of being a digital citizen within the Diocese of Brooklyn are expected: Respect One’s Self

● Public names should be appropriate ● Be mindful of any and all content you post including photos, personal views, comments,

personal information, etc. ● Avoid seeking out and/or viewing inappropriate content ● Do not engage in potentially harmful activities such as communicating with persons

unknown to you or internet challenges Respect Others

● Be mindful of comments, posts, photos or any content directed toward or including others ● Refrain from engaging in inflammatory, harassing, or any other such disrespectful behavior ● Do not perpetuate inappropriate content by sharing it with or sending it to others ● Warn others of potentially disturbing or harmful content that should be avoided

Protect One’s Self and Others

● Report any and all cyber-abuse committed against you or others to parents, teachers and/or administrators

● Keep groups with friends private to avoid potentially inappropriate or dangerous content and communications from unknown sources

Respect Intellectual Property ● Cite sources when using any content not originally authored by you

Members of Parish School and Catholic Academy communities must remember that when telecommunicating with individuals, groups, or institutions, you are doing so as an individual. You should not represent yourself, your views, ideas, questions, or actions as representing the Parish School or Catholic Academy you are associated with without the expressed permission of the principal. Security of Technology The schools and academies of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn assume no responsibility for the theft, loss, repair or replacement of any technology devices that are brought onto school/academy property, whether it is lost, stolen, damaged, or confiscated. Security on any computer system is a high priority. If you believe you can identify a security issue, you must notify a system administrator, principal, or teacher and not disclose the problem to others in any way. Although there are safeguards in place to protect all users from inappropriate content, we are not responsible for failures in filtering that result in a bypass of our program and/or access to objectionable content. If any inappropriate content bypasses these safeguards, any parties involved should turn off the monitor and report the security breach immediately to a system administrator, teacher or the principal. Additionally, member of the school/academy community shall not:

● Use another’s credentials for any reason ● Gain or attempt to gain unauthorized access to Diocesan or school/academy computers or

computer systems. ● Download or install any software application without prior authorization.

Administrative Rights (To monitor use of technology) The school/academy reserves the right to monitor both student and employee use of technology and computer accessed content. Due to the evolving nature of technology, the Catholic Schools and Academies of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn reserve the right to amend or add to this policy at any time without notice. Personal use of Social Media (Teachers, Students) This section refers to the personal use of social media. This includes, but is not limited to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, Google+, LinkedIn, Snapchat or any other such medium. All references to school/academy personnel, students and/or any member of the school/academy community in technology related mediums such as web pages or email which is deemed to be conduct injurious to the moral tone of the school or academy are violations of this policy. Any communication with current students by faculty, staff or administration is strictly forbidden on any personal social networking site. Personal posts must use appropriately respectful speech, and refrain from harassing, defamatory, abusive, discriminatory, threatening or other inappropriate communications. Representation of the school/academy in whole or part on any personal posts and/or communication is prohibited.

Section 6- General Procedural Information

6.1 Dress Code The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn believes that clothes do not define a person. The wearing of a uniform allows everyone to be seen for who they are, not by what they have. The purpose of a uniform is a means of consistency in student dress, while keeping costs to a minimum. It also reduces the problem of competitive dressing. Students, unless otherwise notified by Administration, will wear the school uniform. All students are expected to keep themselves well-groomed and neatly dressed at all times. A clean and healthy appearance is important. Any form of dress or hair style which is considered by the Administrations to be contrary to good hygiene or which is distractive or disruptive in appearance and detrimental to the purpose or conduct of the school will not be permitted. All clothing must be clean, neatly pressed, and in good repair. No ripped, torn, or defaced item may be worn.

Kindergarten St. Andrew Avellino gym uniform shorts/t-shirt in warm weather, sweatpants and sweatshirt in cold weather, white socks, sneakers

Girls Uniform Grades 1 to 6 Plaid jumper, blue blouse (round collar), plaid tie, black shoes (NO platforms, boots or sneakers), navy knee socks or tights

Girls Uniform Grades 7 - 8 Plaid Skirt (Skirts should come to the top of the knee – NO HIGHER) navy weskit, blue blouse (pointed collar), navy knee socks or tights, black shoes (NO platform or heels higher than 2 in., boots or sneakers) Boys Uniform Grades 1 - 8 Grey pants, blue shirt, navy school tie, black belt, black socks, black shoes (NO boots, or sneakers) Uniform knit shirts may be worn by boys and girls during the months of September, October, May and June. Girls may wear knit shirts and skorts.

All uniform components must be purchased at Flynn and O’Hara uniform company located at 8040 Cooper Avenue Glendale, NY 11385 used by the school.

NOT PERMITTED:

Hooded sweatshirts other than SAACA sweatshirt

Boots or shoes with platform soles

Make-up including foundation or cover-up

Nail polish or artificial nails of any kind

Hanging or hoop earrings of any sort

Multiple ear piercings

“Fad” Haircuts or hair colors

Highlights of any kind (PK TO 8TH)

Jewelry (see exceptions)

Boys are not permitted to wear earrings

Boys’ hair should not be below their collar or below their eyebrows.

Acceptable Jewelry:

*Girls only – small post earring (1 per ear)

*Boys and girls: a watch and 1 necklace and or bracelet. No more than 1 ring on each hand.

Jewelry is not to be worn to gym classes due to safety. Jewelry worn to school is the sole responsibility of the wearer.

* INTERPRETATION OF THE ABOVE IS TO BE LEFT UP TO THE PRINCIPAL 6.1a Dress Down Days There may be occasions in which students are allowed to wear non-uniform attire. Students are reminded to dress with modesty. Students should adhere to the following attire:

● Appropriate length skirt, shorts or dress – no shorter than 3” above the knees ● No torn or tight jeans or pants ● No spaghetti strap tanks, midriffs, tube tops, etc. ● No logo type T-shirts ● No hats (unless specifically designated) ● No loose/baggy pants or shorts ● No make-up or nail polish (including gels/French manicures) ● No hoop earrings or excessive jewelry ● No jeggings, leggings or skinny jeans

6.1b Grooming Code Hair must be its natural color, clean, neatly combed, not totally covering the ears or eyes, or falling below the shirt collar.

● Facial hair is not permitted ● Hair must be a natural color. Streaking, highlighting, lowlights, glints, etc. are not permitted.

Students are not allowed to wear make-up at any time. This includes eye make-up, nail polish, and acrylic nails. Only appropriate jewelry is allowed. Two bracelets may be worn at a time. One pair of small earrings may be worn by girls only. Necklaces must be tucked into the shirt. Tattoos and body piercings are not allowed.

6.2 Attendance Policy St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy has developed our attendance policy in accordance with New York State Education Law Section 3205 to be implemented on July 1, 2020. This comprehensive attendance policy will help to uphold the philosophy and mission statement of our school/academy, as stated in our handbook.

Education Law of the State of New York mandates school attendance for all children between the ages of 6 and 16, but the responsibility for compliance rests with the parents/legal guardians. The school is required to keep an accurate record of daily attendance, absence and tardiness in the register of attendance in a manner approved by the Commissioner of Education.

● When a child has been absent, a written excuse is required from his or her parents/legal guardians. If a student is absent without an excuse, or if the school has reason to suspect the validity of the excuse, the principal will investigate the situation.

● When a student has been absent for five days without a satisfactory explanation, a report will be made to the attendance officer of the local public school district.

● Continuing illegal absences, totaling five or more days, will also be reported to the attendance officer at the local public school district office.

● Although each case is different, it should be noted that at 40 truancy days, retention is a strong possibility and principals will contact the local district office to alert the truancy officer.

6.2a Lateness A student who arrives after the time set by the academy or the parish school for the beginning of the day will be marked late. 6.3 School Calendar New York State Law currently requires a school calendar to provide 176 days of instruction with 4 professional days and cites the following holidays when schools may not be in session:

New Year's Day First Day in January Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Third Monday in January Memorial Day Last Monday in May Columbus Day Second Monday in October Veterans Day Eleventh Day in November Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November Christmas Day Twenty-fifth day in December

On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the feast of the patroness of the Diocese of Brooklyn, the academy or parish school will be closed. Academies and parish schools may also choose to observe other Holy Days. All advanced school closings will be indicated in the school calendar.

6.3a) School Hours During the 2020-2021 school year, the school hours will be as follows: Tentative Times due to COVID Nursery - 1st grade 8:15 - 2:30 2nd - 5th grade 8:15 - 240 6th - 8th grade 8:10 - 2:50 6.3b) Before Care & After Care Before care begins each morning at 7:00AM. Students will be housed in their own pod and seated socially distanced according to grade level. Morning care ends at 7:50 and students will be brought up to his/her classroom by his/her homeroom teacher. After care begins immediately after dismissal. Students will be grouped according to grade level in the cafeteria. They will remain socially distanced at assigned tables.. Students will have the opportunity to complete homework and have supervised free time when they are finished. After care ends at 6:00PM 6.3c) School Office Hours The school office will be open from 7:30 - 4:00 PM each day. Because of COVID, parents must call for an appointment if they wish to see the principal in person. A table will be set up for parents to drop off any mail for the office so that contact can be limited. They will also be able to drop off lunch in the event that a student has forgotten it at home. 6.3d) Early Release Schedule Students will be dismissed at 12 NOON on the first Friday of the month to allow teachers to attend a faculty meeting or other professional development. 6.4 Releasing of Students Students are expected to be in attendance for the complete session each school day. If for any reason a student must leave the academy or parish school before the regular dismissal hour, a parent/legal guardian or a person authorized by the parent/legal guardian must come to the academy or parish school office to pick the student up and escort the student out of the building. Parents/ legal guardians must provide authorization for their child to be released to an individual other than a parent/ legal guardian. 6.4a Custody, Guardianship Orders Parents must provide accurate custodial information to be kept on file at the academy or parish school. Non-custodial parents do have rights. The law protects non-custodial parents and maintains that parents do not cease to be parents when they no longer have custody of their children. The Diocese of Brooklyn abides by the provisions of the Buckley Amendment with respect to the rights of non-custodial parents. In the absence of a court order to the contrary, a school or parish academy will provide the non-custodial parents with access to academic records and other school information regarding his or her child. If there is a court order specifying that there is to be no information given, it is the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school with a court certified copy of the court order.

6.5 Field Trips Written permission must be obtained from parents/legal guardians of students who wish to go on scheduled trips. Information to the parents/legal guardians will include the date, purpose and destination of the trip, the expense, the means of transportation, and probable time of return.

Adults who wish to chaperone must complete Virtus training and background checks prior to accompanying students. Please see section 9.4 for further information about this process.

6.6 Birthday Policy Due to COVID-19, students may not bring food into the classroom to be shared with other students. To promote health and safety, students should consume only the foods that they have brought to school that have been packaged individually or have been provided by the school. Teachers will not distribute party invitations unless the whole class is invited to the celebration. 6.7 Lost and Found The lost and found is located in the main office. 6.8 Responsibility for Valuables The academies and parish schools within the Diocese of Brooklyn are not responsible for valuables that are lost or damaged. It is strongly advised that students do not bring valuables into the school building including electronic devices such as tablets, phones, etc. Section 6- Transportation 6.1 Bus procedures While students are being transported to and from their academy/ parish school, it is expected that they will uphold the behavior expectations of the academy/ parish school as well as rules set forth by the bus driver or bus company. Students who continuously disregard bus procedures and rules are at risk of losing their access to bus transportation. Each bus company must hold an evacuation drill at least once a year. Students are expected to follow all instructions as given by the bus driver or other adult facilitating the drill. 6.2 Use of Other Vehicles Only a licensed public carrier that is fully insured should be used to transport students. Teachers or administrators should not transport students in their personal vehicles. Parents/ legal guardians must provide authorization for their child to be transported by someone else. This includes transportation for dismissal as well as extracurricular activities. Section 7- Student Records 7.1 Change of Address/Phone Number For student safety, it is imperative that parents/ legal guardians alert the academy or parish school to any changes in address or phone number. Parents/ legal guardians must also provide the academy or parish school with an adequate number of emergency contacts (with up to date information).

7.2 Educational Records Requests In the event of a student transferring to a different academy, parish school, or public school, the school will provide student records to the school of transfer. Requests can be made in writing by the parent/ legal guardian or by the school that the student will be transferring to. The school office is responsible for sending student records directly to the school of transfer. If records are not provided in a timely fashion, parents or legal guardians may contact the Office of the Superintendent to receive further assistance in this matter. 7.3 Authorization to Release Records Academies and parish schools may not release the records of students without the written consent of the parents/legal guardians to any individual, agency or organization other than the following:

● Other academy or parish school officials who have legitimate educational interests. ● Officials of other academies or parish schools in which the student intends to enroll. ● Officials of the courts with lawfully issued judicial process, i.e., subpoena, court order, etc. ● Please note health records are the property of the Department of Health.

7.4 Review of a Child’s Official Records Parents/legal guardians have the right to inspect any and all material which is part of their child’s permanent record. Academies and parish schools require parents/legal guardians to provide a written request prior to when they wish to examine their child’s permanent record. At the time of inspection, the academy or parish school administrator, or qualified delegate, will be present.

Section 8- Health and Nutrition 8.1 Medical Requirements The New York City Department of Health requires that all new students entering nursery through grade 12 show proof of having received a complete medical evaluation. Children who transfer from one school to another in New York City are not considered new students. These requirements may change from year to year. New York State Law states that all students in Grades Nursery through 12 must be immunized as directed by the New York State and New York City Departments of Health. New students may enter school provisionally with documentation of an initial series of immunizations. Once admitted provisionally, a student has a certain amount of time to continue and complete the medical requirements. Students who fail to complete the necessary requirements within the appropriate time frame must be excluded from school. Parents must provide records of immunization to be kept on file at the Academy or parish school. Any exemptions to the immunization requirements must be approved by the Academy or parish school with documentation being kept in the student’s health records. Only medical exemptions are permitted per New York State Law. Religious exemptions are no longer permissible.

● For nursery, pre-k, and UPK Programs--Between July 1 and December 31 of each year, all children between the ages of 6 months and 59 months and attending a group child care or school-based child care program must receive one dose of influenza vaccine.

8.2 Administering Medications at School School nurses may administer over-the counter-prescription drugs to students with written consent and medical authorization from a parent or legal guardian. School nurses may administer prescription medication that has been prescribed by a physician but must be provided with

● Medical authorization from the parent or legal guardian consenting to administering the medication

● A medical plan developed by the child’s parents and health care provider detailing the proper administration of the medication, details regarding the child’s medical concerns, and other pertinent details.

8.2a Administering Epinephrine Parents or guardians will supply their own epinephrine auto-injector and must provide written consent and medical authorization for its use. The academy or parish school must have an up-to-date medical statement on file for each child in care. For a child with identified allergies or with special health care needs, the academy or parish school must have a copy of an individual health care plan developed by the child’s parents and health care provider. Parents must make program staff aware of the individual health care plan on their child’s first day at the program.

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian of the student who is at risk of anaphylaxis: ● to notify the school that the child/student is at risk of anaphylaxis and is in need of the

presence of epinephrine on school premises ● to indicate to the school if the child/student is capable of self-administration of the

epinephrine device ● to supply the school with the epinephrine device* in its original packaging as received from

the pharmacist ● to replace the epinephrine device when it expires, discolors or has been used

*It is recommended that two epinephrine devices be supplied, the second functioning as a back-up in case of malfunction or if an extra dose is necessary in accordance with medical documentation.

8.2b Administering Epinephrine on Field Trips In the event of a school trip or school event conducted outside of the school premises, it is the responsibility of the parent (or a designated person who appears on the child’s emergency contact list) to attend with the child/student for the purpose of epinephrine administration, if necessary. 8.3 City & State Health Services The Education Law of New York State mandates that students attending nonpublic schools receive the same health services provided to students attending public schools 8.4 Limitations of Physical Activities In the event a student cannot participate in certain physical activities, the parent must provide the school nurse with a doctor’s note. 8.5 Breakfast/Lunch Program St. Andrew Avellino does not have a breakfast program. Students bring lunch from home. Students will be allowed to purchase lunch during the week. These lunches will be provided by area restaurants and be individually wrapped.

8.6 Wellness Policy Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy seeks to promote the Spiritual, Intellectual, Physical and Emotional well being of our students. As previously stated, students should have a nutritious breakfast before coming to school. A healthy lunch and drink should also be sent in on full days of school. In younger grades, teachers will often send home what the children DO NOT eat so parents see what child is or isn’t eating. In addition to our PE program, the children will go outside for lunch recess, weather permitting. This allows children to get out in the air as well as to move around. Teachers are encouraged to have children take “stand & stretch” breaks every once in awhile to have the students move and not just be sitting. THIS WILL BE VITAL DURING COVID PROTOCOLS as they are not changing classes, etc. AGAIN, they must social distance while doing this. Saint Andrew Avellino is fortunate to have a School Counselor courtesy of our Diocesan PDHP Program. Teachers may refer a student to the counselor should he/she feel that the child is exhibiting signs of emotional distress. If a child has said or done something in class to indicate a possible emotional issue, he/she may also consult the counselor & principal Section 9 Parental Obligations 9.1 Parental Involvement Home is the first place where a child learns love and respect for God and neighbor. Parents/legal guardians, in choosing a Catholic school to continue the education begun at home; have responsibilities as well as opportunities to share in the continuance of their children's education.

Parental involvement consists of parents/legal guardians and staff meeting together because of common interest in the child. It is expressed in many ways such as sharing in student supervision in the lunchroom or playground or serving as library or teacher aide. In some instances, parents/legal guardians may be asked to assist in advocacy in all areas that would benefit the schools, including programs that request government assistance, in consultation with the Office of the Superintendent. The involvement of the total family is also a means of communicating the academy’s and parish school’s performance to the total parish community.

Parental support for the education of their children is of the upmost importance. Parents and legal guardians are also expected to uphold the behavioral expectations set forth for students and staff within the academy or parish school community. Failure of parents to act in a manner compatible with the values of the academy or parish school may result in student dismissal.

9.2 Fundraising Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy appreciates the tremendous sacrifice parents make in choosing to send your child to a Catholic school. Tuition is our primary source of income, however the rates charged do not reflect the true cost to the academy for educating each child. As such, the academy must fundraise. It is expected that all stakeholders support, participate and promote our fundraisers so they can be successful. 9.3 Parent Teacher Association (PTA) - Home Academy Association (HAA) Every academy or parish school is encouraged to establish a Home School Association. Its purpose is the educational enrichment of parents/legal guardians and teachers. The goal of the Home School Association is to foster a clearer understanding of the mutual responsibilities of parents/legal guardians and teachers regarding the education of the students.

An added responsibility of the Home School Association will be to assist in the fundraising efforts of the academy or parish school. In the school, this is done in coordination with the administration. In an academy, it is done in coordination with the board of directors of the academy. No organization may hold title to accounts nor have access to funds raised for the academy or parish school. All financial transactions must be approved by the pastor/academy board of directors. 9.4 Volunteering, Chaperoning & Virtus Training Parent volunteers and chaperones are an integral part of the school community. All parents/ legal guardians/ other adults, must complete VIRTUS training, sign a Code of Conduct, and complete a background check.

● The VIRTUS program for adults is a three-hour live awareness session that instructs adults of the Church that to protect children you must have continuous awareness and vigilance. This awareness session helps trainees understand signs of child sexual abuse, the methods and means by which offenders commit abuse, and five empowerment steps to prevent child sexual abuse.

● The Code of Conduct is a document that acknowledges the importance of legal, professional and responsible conduct of all who work with children and young people. All clergy, employees and volunteers are required to read the Code of Conduct and to sign a Statement of Acknowledgement Form. The Code of Conduct is distributed at all VIRTUS sessions.

● All employees and volunteers are also required to have a criminal background screening completed before they start their employment or service. These forms are also distributed at all VIRTUS sessions. As of May 2010, all background screenings (employees and volunteers) will be done through the Safe Environment Office. The searches are done through LexisNexis (volunteers) or HireRight (employees). All information is kept confidential and if a positive result is returned, the pastor/administrator will be notified and appropriate steps will be taken. Background searches will be rerun every 3 years for employees and 5 years for volunteers

Section 10- Safety 10.1 Emergency Drills Per New York State laws, academies and parish schools are required to conduct twelve emergency drills over the course of the school year. Four of these drills must be lockdown drills. Students are expected to follow all directives provided to them by school teachers and staff. Failure to comply or act appropriately during emergency drills will result in disciplinary action. 10.2 School Closings The Diocese of Brooklyn will base their closings on the New York City Public School System. If the New York City school system closes due to inclement weather, the schools within the Diocese of Brooklyn are closed. Local academies and parish schools may also make decisions to close their individual schools based on inclement weather or other hazardous conditions (infrastructure issues, flooding, property damage, etc.). Parents will be notified as soon as possible. In the event of a closure during the school day, proper provisions will be made for students to return home or to be cared for in other premises until usual dismissal time. 10.3 Procedures for Visitors All visitors must be admitted to the building by school staff. Visitors should proceed to the main office to sign in and receive a visitor designation (lanyard, sticker, etc.) if available. Visitors to the school are asked to remain in the office until they have confirmed their destination within the

school. For the safety of staff and students, visitors should not walk about the school but should travel to their intended destination within the school. Prior to leaving the school, visitors should return to the main office, sign out, and leave through the main doors. Visitors should not exit through side doors to ensure that building security is maintained. During COVID-19, we ask all parents and legal guardians to visit the academy or parish school only when necessary as well as to keep any visits as brief as possible.

10.4 Video Surveillance Cameras Academies and parish schools within the Diocese of Brooklyn are authorized to use video camera surveillance on academy/ parish school property to monitor the heal th, welfare, and safety of all staff, students, and visitors to the property, and to safeguard facilities and equipment. Video cameras may be placed in locations as deemed appropriate by the designated school administrators. Violations of Diocesan policies, administrative regulations, building rules, or laws that images, video and audio capture through surveillance may be used as evidence that may subject students, staff, and visitors to appropriate disciplinary and legal action, including, but not limited to, disclosure to law enforcement. Data from video surveillance is typically retained for a year. Data related to a known incident which involves injury to students, staff or members of the public or property, or which involves any potential violation of the law or Diocesan policies will be kept with reports of the incident until the incident has been appropriately resolved. Section 11 Instruction 11.1 Grading Policy Report Cards Award and Honors Principal’s List Grades 3 – 4 Students must have all A+ - Personal Progress All Excellent and/or Good Grade 5 Students must have an average of 95+ Personal Progress All Excellent and/or Good Grade 6 – 8 Students must have an average of 95+ no subject grade below 93. Personal Progress all 3s or 4s First Honors Grades 3 - 4 All A and A+ - Personal Progress - All Commendable Grade 5 Average of 90+ Personal Progress - All Excellent and/or Good Grades 6 – 8 Average of 90+ and no subject grade below an 88. Personal Progress all 3s or 4s Second Honors Grades 3 - 4 All B+s and As - Personal Progress - All Excellent and/or Good

Grade 5 Average 85+ Personal Progress - All Excellent and/or Good Grades 6 - 8 Average 85+ with no subject grade below an 83 Personal Progress all 3s or 4s Effort Honors This award is for a student who shows outstanding effort. It is given at the discretion of the teacher. 11.2 Homework Policy All students are expected to participate in class activities, assignments, projects, and homework. Report card grades are a combination of test marks, class participation, assignments, projects, and homework. It is the responsibility of every parent and child to check homework for neatness and accuracy. Your signature on ALL your child’s homework indicates that you feel it is an acceptable standard. In order to help our children become more responsible, they will not be permitted to call home if they have forgotten books, projects, etc. Students who are absent will be expected to make up work in a timely manner depending on the length of their absence. Work will be posted on Google Classroom and if it is an extended absence, a parent must come to school to pick up their child’s books. 11.3 Protecting Instructional Time Maintaining school schedule and structure is of the utmost importance during the school year. As academies and parish schools make their calendar and schedules, their goal is to protect instructional time as much as possible. In protecting instructional time, parents are asked to refrain from removing their child during the school day for unnecessary activities. Appointments should be scheduled, when possible, before or after the school day in order to avoid disrupting student learning. Vacations and family trips should also be planned, when possible, for existing school vacation weeks. In the event of a necessary absence, parents should alert the school and classroom teacher as soon as possible. If an extended absence is known, parents should communicate with their child’s teacher to create a plan for making up missed work. 11.4 Reporting Student Progress 11.4a Progress Reports & Report Card Schedule Parents/ legal guardians will receive report cards three times a year, at the end of each trimester. Parents/ legal guardians will also receive progress reports during each trimester prior to receiving the report cards. It is vital to a student’s progress that an open communication exists between parents/ legal guardians and their child’s teacher. Any concerns regarding a child’s progress should be addressed first to the child’s teacher. 11.4b Parent Teacher Conferences Parents/ legal guardians will have the opportunity to attend parent teacher conferences at the end of the first and second trimester following receipt of student report cards. While these are formally scheduled conferences, parents are also encouraged to schedule meetings with teachers or other staff, when necessary, to discuss their child’s progress and learning goals.

11.4c NYS Testing Students in grades 4, 6, 7, and 8 will participate in New York State Testing. Parents receive an Individual Student Report (ISR) which includes a breakdown of a student’s performance in different skill areas within ELA, Math and Science. This helps parents understand where their child is doing well and in what areas he or she may need additional practice. Parents can use these results to guide a discussion with their child’s teacher about additional supports or challenges that may be needed in the classroom, as well as ways to support learning at home. There are no negative consequences when taking state tests as the tests are considered diagnostic. The ELA and math test results are not recorded on student permanent record cards or report cards. New York State law forbids the use of state test results as the determining factor in promotion. 11.4d TerraNova Testing Students in grades 3-8 will participate in TerraNova Testing in the fall. TerraNova testing is a nationally- normed, standardized testing program. This series of tests is issued to diagnose student performance and develop student learning goals. Section 12-Internet Use 12.1 Option C The Option C Parent Portal allows parents to be involved in their child’s academic life on their schedule and more efficiently. Rather than writing a note to a teacher to see how their child is doing on assignments, they can access the portal and see it in real time. They can communicate with teachers directly through Option C removing the issues of lost or blocked email messages. It allows teachers to contact parents directly and keeps a record of the interaction should it be necessary. As grades are recorded for student work, they can be shared with parents, giving any time up-to-date progress reports. Option C's Parent Alert System is a flexible notification system that lets its audiences - parents, principals, and school staff - communicate quickly and reliably. Academies and parish schools may also create alerts to send to parents regarding fundraisers, events, drills, community affairs, school closings and any information they would like to communicate quickly. Users can decide how they want to be reached, either by voice, text or email, or any combination. Parents should check their settings on Option C to ensure that all contact information is up to date and all options are set correctly. 12.2 Communications with Teachers Students benefit tremendously when an open line of communication exists between families and teachers. It is recommended that parents/ legal guardians communicate any concerns regarding their child. Parents/ legal guardians as well as teachers should always use Option C, school communication platforms (I.e. Google classroom), or a note sent directly to the teacher/ family. If needed, the parent/ legal guardian or teacher can schedule a follow-up meeting to address any further issue. It is also recommended that a parent communicate with a teacher regarding their concerns prior to involving the administration. Initiating an open communication with the teacher first continues a positive relationship between families and teachers. It is strongly advised that parents and teachers do not use personal social media accounts or personal cell phones (texting) as a means of communication in regards to school related concerns.

Section 13-Finances 13.1 School Tuition Policies The success of our Academy relies on the commitment of our families to make Catholic education a financial priority. The Academy has full-year contractual and financial obligations that must be met, such as teacher salaries, utility bills, building maintenance and improvements, and other expenses. Families that seek enrollment are required to satisfy the annual tuition by specified due dates.

These policies are not intended to deprive anyone of a Catholic education. It is our desire to maintain a fair approach to collection of tuition and to provide a sound financial policy for the overall welfare of our families. We encourage all responsible parties to maintain open communication with the business office to ensure a complete understanding of each family’s financial obligations. The goal of our academy is to provide a Catholic education to every student who desires one, but only by mutual cooperation can we make certain that this goal is met. Parental non-payment or delinquency in meeting financial obligations creates an additional burden for the Academy.

● Tuition contracts specifying a payment schedule will be published and shared with families. All families must sign an enrollment contract that guarantees the family will be responsible for the full payment of tuition for the academic year.

● Academies will arrange for all tuition and fees to be collected through FACTS Tuition Management.

● Tuition payment schedule will follow the most appropriate schedule for the academy and parents: monthly, one payment, or three installments.

● A Tuition Assistance Committee will be in place at every school/academy

13.2 Tuition and other fee schedules The academy or parish school will collect tuition and fees over a ten month period. This ten month period will typically extend from August to April. Tuition collection will begin prior to the start of the school year. 2020-2021 Tuition Rates Nurserry (Full Day) $4,600 Pre-KIndergarten $4,800 Affliated/Contributor (K-8) Non-Affliated/Non-Contributor (K-8) 1 Child $5,600 1 Child $6,700 2 Children $9400 2 Children $10.900 3 Children $12,900 3 Children $15,100 Academies and parish schools reserve the right to place severely delinquent accounts in the hands of a collection agency or its attorneys for collection. It is not our desire that any family should incur unnecessary legal fees or suffer further embarrassment or inconvenience in this regard. Again, we encourage prompt communication with the academy in an effort to avoid litigation.

In order to withdraw a student, the parent must submit written notice to the principal in advance of the withdraw date. This enables the academy to prepare necessary information and settle

accounts. No student records will be forwarded to another academy or school until all accounts have been settled.

Following the terms of the enrollment contract, refunds will be made only in accordance with the stated guidelines and/or at the discretion of the administration. The refund must be requested prior to the start of the period for which payment would be made.

13.3 Resources for Tuition assistance Catholic education is meant to be available to every Catholic family. Every family desiring a Catholic education for their child(ren) will participate to the extent capable in the cost of providing that education. Each family in need of tuition assistance must complete a scholarship application through Futures in Education, which may currently be found at: www.futuresineducation.org/scholarships . The one exception is families returning to the Teddy Forstmann program coordinated by Children’s Scholarship Fund.

If the family requests additional assistance beyond the awarded amount, the request will be forwarded to the Tuition Assistance Committee. The review will be completed as early as possible.

13.4 Tuition Assistance Committee The Tuition Assistance Committee is an essential advisory body to the pastor/board chair and principal. It has a two-fold purpose.

● The Committee will have the responsibility of direct involvement in the monitoring and collection of tuition arrears from the families of its respective school or academy.

● The Committee will be empowered to recommend when needed a partial deferment of tuition for families that have demonstrated true financial need or face unforeseen extraordinary circumstances. Such a deferment will establish a fair and just tuition rate that will allow students to remain enrolled when even scholarship assistance is not enough. This discernment must be guided by an approved process that is fair, transparent and reasonable. Any recommendation made by the Tuition Assistance Committee must be approved by the respective pastor of a parochial school and the Board of Directors for an academy.

Should there be a concern regarding the tuition assistance process or if an appeal for discernment is requested, parents/guardians should present their concerns in writing. In the case of a parish school, the letter should be addressed to the pastor of the parish. In the case of a Catholic academy, the letter should be addressed to the chairperson of the Board of Directors. The response from the pastor or chairperson would be final.

13.5 FACTS FACTS is a tuition management company designed to make tuition collection simpler for families as well as academies and parish schools. There will be one FACTS record per family, and each student must be listed separately. This provides valuable detail about the charges and discounts each student is receiving. In turn, this provides the academy better reporting. A major benefit of FACTS is the ability to process automatic drafts of the payer’s bank account or credit card. There is a 2.85% convenience fee on credit card transactions. FACTS does offer an invoicing option as well. With this option, FACTS will send an invoice to the payer (via email or postal mail) 20

calendar days prior to the payment due date. The payer must then initiate payment either by using a credit card or bank account online, over the phone, or by mailing a check directly to FACTS. Families are encouraged to pay via automatic draft. FACTS also allows for flexible payment options. Common options are monthly payments, three trimester payments, and a payment in full.

13.6 Tuition Delinquency ● By standard practice, FACTS will send payment reminders prior to any due date, returned

payment notices in the case of a failed payment, and will make automated phone calls to delinquent payers. Payers who fail to communicate with the academy and resolve the delinquency through a payment schedule approved by the academy will result in suspension of services for the student.

● Students will not be permitted to attend class at the start of the trimester should any balance be past due.

● No student will be permitted to begin an academic year unless all registration and other required fees are current. Registration and other required fees are paid through FACTS Tuition Management at enrollment. Enrollment for students whose families are not current in the registration or other required fees by June 30 may be cancelled at the discretion of the academy. In no event will students be permitted to attend class at the commencement of the academic year unless the delinquency is paid in full.

● In order to participate in graduation activities, all debts for eighth grade students must be cleared by the first Monday of May. Eighth grade transcripts will not be released to the high schools if the financial obligations have not been met.

● All fees must be paid in full before records or progress reports will be processed. It is the sole discretion of the academy to withhold trimester exams, report cards, transcripts, records, and diplomas until all financial obligations are satisfied in full.

Section 14-Safe Environment 14.1 Reporting Inappropriate Behavior with Children to Principal Anyone who suspects or has evidence of inappropriate behavior with a student/child at Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy, should immediately report this to the principal. The nature of the behavior, person(s) involved need to be detailed. School Administration will investigate the nature of the behavior and take appropriate action. If warranted as a mandated reporter, principal will follow all necessary steps and procedures to see that both diocesan and state authorities are notified and next step protocols are enacted. 14.2 Children reporting to their parents Children often report to their parents about inappropriate behavior of a classmate or someone else, especially if the behavior was directed at them. It is important that children feel comfortable talking/sharing their experiences with their parents. It is also important that when children are reporting about inappropriate behavior, the parent get clarification about the behavior. How the situation/behavior should be addressed will very much depend upon the behavior reported.

● Student to student issue—child says a classmate was “mean”- which in of itself needs defining, the first point of contact should be the teacher. The teacher would then investigate. (There are two sides to every story.) Upon investigating, the teacher will follow up with all parties involved. Should the issue persist, the teacher and/or parent should bring the principal into conversation.

● Student reports issue with the teacher- again depending upon what child is reporting, will determine how it should be addressed. “Teacher gave me detention for no reason” should be addressed with the teacher. If a child reports something more serious, you should report to the principal.

14.3 Child Lures Prevention Program The Child Lures/Teen Lures Prevention programs are presented to the children and youth who attend each academy or parish school. This program is tailored to different age groups and covers topics such as staying healthy and safe, kindness and respect, trusted adults, my body belongs to me, child luring, choosing grown-ups to help, children are special, and abuse is never a child’s fault (topics will vary based on age level appropriateness). For older students, topics include sexual assault, harassment, dating violence, bullying/cyberbullying, sexting, identity theft, online luring, suicide and human trafficking with the goal of facilitating authentic conversations to bring awareness to the topics. Each program provides teachers with the resources to facilitate appropriate conversations. Parents/ legal guardians will also be provided with a link to access parent guides digitally to continue the conversations within their homes. 14.4 Alcohol and Drug Free Zone Policy The New York City Tobacco Products Regulations Act of 1994 curtails exposure to tobacco use on school grounds. For the purpose of this legislation “school grounds” means the “buildings, grounds or facilities, or any part thereof, owned or occupied by public or private institutions for the primary purpose of providing educational instructions to students at or below the twelfth grade level.” Tobacco use is not permitted on school grounds at any time. A “tobacco product” is any substance which contains tobacco including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and chewing tobacco. New York City regulations are far more stringent than the regulations promulgated by New York State. However, schools subject to the rules of this municipality, as are the schools of the Diocese of Brooklyn, must follow the local laws. Thus, smoking is prohibited on ALL SCHOOL PREMISES AT ANY TIME. For the safety of our students, alcohol is also prohibited from being consumed on school premises at any time. 14.5 Signs of Suicide (SOS) Prevention Program SOS Signs of Suicide (SOS) is a universal, school-based prevention program designed for middle school (ages 11-13) and high school (ages 13-17) students. The goals of this program are:

● Decrease suicide and suicide attempts by increasing student knowledge and adaptive attitudes about depression

● Encourage personal help-seeking and/or help-seeking on behalf of a friend ● Reduce the stigma of mental illness and acknowledge the importance of seeking help or

treatment ● Engage parents and school staff as partners in prevention through “gatekeeper” education ● Encourage schools to develop community-based partnerships to support student mental

health Through a video and guided discussion, students learn to identify warning signs of suicide and depression. At the end of the session, students complete a seven-question screening for depression (anonymous or signed – the school can decide) to further encourage help-seeking and connect students at risk with trusted adults. The curriculum raises awareness about behavioral health and encourages students to ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell) when worried about themselves or their peers.

Section 15- COVID-19 *All health related policies and procedures have been adopted from the regulations published by the NYC Department of Education in partnership with the NYC Board of Health. 15.1 Hygiene and Health Requirements Students need to be reminded about the importance of washing their hands regularly. They should wash them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not readily available. Wash hands:

● After using restroom ● Before and after eating ● After blowing nose, coughing, or sneezing. ● After handling masks ● If hands visibly dirty

Students also need to be reminded to: Cough or sneeze into the crook of the elbow and keep hands away from eyes, nose and mouth especially if hands are dirty. 15.1a Face Coverings Students are required to wear face coverings when in the school building and maintain appropriate social/physical distancing. Students should bring an appropriate face covering from home. The school will have surgical masks available for students as needed. Students’ cloth face coverings should be clearly identified with their names or initials, to avoid confusion or swapping. Students’ face coverings may also be labeled to indicate top/bottom and front/back. Non-disposable masks should be washed daily.

All visitors to the school for any reason will always be required to wear a face covering while on school grounds or in the school building. Faculty and Staff are also required to wear masks

All masks for faculty, staff, and students are subject to approval by the principal and Office of the Superintendent of Schools. Masks should be plain and free of any objectionable statements or support for any group, product, political view, and so on, other than the name of their Parish School or Catholic Academy.

Students will be provided opportunities for short breaks to remove masks throughout the day, while social distancing, in addition to removing them during outdoor times and while eating.

15.1b Social Distancing Classrooms and other school areas will be set up to ensure social distancing between students. Students will also be required to maintain social distance when they are not at their desk. This is particularly important when students are not wearing face coverings such as while eating or during mask breaks.

15.2 Health Policies If a student or staff members displays symptoms of COVID-19 during the school day, the following procedures will be followed:

● Each building will have a designated Isolation Room for students or staff who display symptoms

● A student showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be escorted to the Isolation Room by a staff member wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

● The area where the student was showing symptoms will be immediately cleaned and disinfected.

● The student will be evaluated by the nurse/health professional in the Isolation Room.

● A family member or guardian will be contacted by a staff member and asked to pick up the student.

● Upon pick up, the nurse/health professional and school staff will strongly advise the family to visit a doctor and get the student tested for COVID-19

● Any student placed in the Isolation Room will be adequately supervised by a staff member during this time until the ill student can be picked up.

15.2a Health Screenings Parents/ legal guardians will be asked to check student temperatures and screen students for symptoms prior to their arrival to school grounds. In the event that parents/ legal guardians are unable to do so, school staff members will be designated to complete health screenings. It is asked that all parents/ legal guardians are vigilant in temperature and symptom screenings for their children for the safety of other students as well as staff members. School staff will also perform random temperature screenings for both students and staff members using no-touch thermometers. Symptoms of COVID-19 are:

● Fever of 100.0°F or higher or chills ● Cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, ● Fatigue, ● Muscle or body aches, ● Headache, ● Loss of taste or smell, ● Sore throat, congestion or runny nose, ● Nausea or vomiting, ● Diarrhea.

15.3b Students Excluded from In-Person Learning School-based staff and students cannot report to school if they have:

● Been knowingly in close or proximate contact in the past 14 days with anyone who has tested positive through a diagnostic test for COVID-19 or who has or had symptoms of COVID-19.

● Tested positive through a diagnostic test for COVID-19 in the past 14 days. ● Experienced any symptoms of COVID-19, including a temperature of greater than 100.0°F,

in the past 14 days. ● Traveled internationally or from a state with widespread community transmission of

COVID-19 per the New York State Travel Advisory in the past 14 days.

15.4 Returning to School after Showing Symptoms Any individual (student or staff member) showing signs of COVID-19 can only return to school when the following conditions are met:

• Received a positive COVID-19 test AND • Isolated for 10 days AND • Presents clearance from a healthcare provider AND • The individual has been symptom free for 24 hours without the use of medication.

OR • Received a negative COVID-19 test AND • Presents clearance from a healthcare provider AND • The individual has been symptom free for 24 hours without the use of medication.

OR

• Never got a COVID-19 test AND • At least 10 days have passed since symptoms started AND • Presents clearance from a healthcare provider AND • The individual has been symptom free for 24 hours without the use of medication.

If DOHMH or NYC Test & Trace Corps determine the individual is considered a close contact of a positive case, the individual can only return to school when all the following are met:

• The individual has completed a 14-day quarantine regardless of symptoms or COVID-19 test results since their last exposure to that case AND

• Presents clearance from a health care provider evaluation AND • The student has been symptom free for 24 hours without the use of medication. • Students in quarantine should participate in remote learning if feeling well enough.

15.3 School Closures Academies and parish schools within the Diocese of Brooklyn will continue to work to provide in-person learning as long as it is safe to do so. Academies and parish schools will follow guidance from local Board of Health officials as well as directives from the City of New York to ensure student safety. Per the New York City Department of Education “In order for schools to reopen and stay open, the percentage of positive tests in New York City must be less than 3% using a 7-day rolling average. Schools will need to close if the percentages of positive tests in New York City are equal to or more than 3% using a 7-day rolling average. It is important to note that the above threshold is just one trigger for closing schools but may not be the only trigger. For example, a decision to close schools would be made where there were recurrent, uncontrolled outbreaks of COVID-19 in schools, even if the overall case rates across New York City were to remain low.” In the event of positive cases reported within the school community, the following procedures will be followed per NYC Test & Trace Corps and DOHMH Investigations:

Number of Cases During Investigation (at least 24 hrs)

After Investigation

One confirmed case in a classroom

Close classroom with positive case, transition to remote learning

Classroom remains closed for 14 days; Students and staff in close contact with positive case quarantine for 14 days

At least two cases linked together in school, same classroom

Close classroom with positive cases, transition to remote learning

Classroom remains closed for 14 days; Students and staff in close contact with positive cases quarantine for 14 days

At least two cases linked together in school, different classrooms

Close school building, transition to remote learning

Classroom or each case remains closed for 14 days; Students and staff in close contact with positive cases quarantine for 14 days. Additional school members are quarantined based on where the exposure was in the school (e.g., the locker room)

At least two cases linked together by circumstances outside of school (e.g., acquired infection by different setting and source)

Close school building, transition to remote learning

School opens after investigation; Classrooms remain closed for 14 days

At least two cases, not linked but exposure confirmed for each outside of school setting

Close school building, transition to remote learning

School opens after investigation; Classrooms remain closed for 14 days

Link unable to be determined

Close school building, transition to remote learning

Close school for 14 days

15.4 Distance Learning Distance learning that is facilitated by a Catholic Academy or Parish School within the Diocese of Brooklyn is bound by all parts of the Acceptable Use Policy. As distance learning requires the use of other mediums such as teleconferencing platforms, virtual classrooms, digital file transfer and online work, there are other factors that need to be addressed.

● Device Usage – The use of school/academy or personal devices for distance learning is allowed. It is recommended that all school/academy issued accounts only be used for schoolwork purposes and that those accounts are signed out of after work is completed. All usage is governed by this policy.

● Video/Audio Conferencing – Video or audio-conferencing platforms may be used to facilitate class meetings and communication between teachers and students for teaching and group work. When using these platforms, participants must remember to conduct themselves in a professional manner commensurate with behavior expected in a physical classroom. Entering meetings other than those you are explicitly invited to by the coordinator (teacher, principal, etc.) is strictly prohibited. Trying to circumvent the security of a meeting, “hijacking” a presentation or displaying any objectionable content during a meeting is a direct violation of this policy and subject to the disciplinary actions contained within. Recording of video/audio conferences is also prohibited.

● File Transfer/Submission – The transmittal of files may be required at times for teachers to provide and students to submit work. The willful transfer of objectionable material, malicious content or any other such transmissions is a violation of this policy.

● Learning Platforms – The use of learning platforms such as ThinkCentral, Learn360, Mathletics, Microsoft 365, Google Classroom and others is for the sole purpose of supporting and furthering the education of students. Any use of these platforms for any other reason may be considered a violation of this policy.

● Any use or misuse of the technology provided for distance learning that interferes with the education of students or the operations of the school/academy is a violation of this policy.

Right to Amend Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy reserves the right to amend this Handbook. Notice of amendments will be sent to parents via their school folder or through e-mail communication